Hearing aids represent a significant investment; getting the most out of them, and making them last should be a priority. Proper use and care at home are critical to enhancing their performance as well as increasing their longevity. This guide on how to care for your hearing aids will allow users to maximize the potential benefits they provide.
Stay Clear of Moisture
Digital devices and water don’t mix. It is best to stay clear of immersing your hearing aids in water, like when you are swimming or soaking in the tub, but you should also avoid wearing them in the shower or sauna and protect them from rain. Sometimes moisture builds up in hearing aids during regular use, especially in humid climates. Should moisture build up inside your hearing aids, open the battery door, and leave it open overnight to allow it to dry out internally. You might also consider a dehumidifier for your home in some locations.
Avoid Temperature Extremes
Extreme heat can cause significant damage to your hearing aids as well. Avoid placing them near a radiator or heater, as well as in areas with direct exposure to sunlight, like a windowsill or the dashboard of your car. High-heat hair dryers can do damage as well, so avoid wearing them when drying your hair. Also, avoid exposing your hearing aids as well as your ears to extreme sub-zero temperatures.
Watch Out for Damaging Substances
Many substances can damage the casing and components of your hearing aids, including:
- hair spray
- spray perfume and cologne
- shaving lotion
- insect repellent
- powders and gels
These substances can cause physical damage to components through clogging or chemical breakdown. Your hearing aids can also incur functional damage during medical procedures like CT scans. Remove hearing aids during hygiene as well as medical procedures to prevent these issues. However, airport scanners do not pose a threat.
Engage in Proper Handling and Cleaning
Handle with care. Dropping your hearing aid on a hard surface can cause damage to the device. Place a towel or some other soft surface under your hearing aids when cleaning them or changing their batteries. Be sure to clean them according to manufacturer’s instructions, avoiding alcohol and other damaging cleaning agents. Get into the practice of cleaning and inspecting them every night to ensure their very best performance and to prevent minor issues from becoming major ones. If you run into difficulties cleaning, take them to a professional instead of forcing the issue.
Not-In-Use Care Tips
Modern hearing aids are pretty small, so it is a good idea to place them in a small, sealable container whenever you are not using them. This prevents them from falling on the floor where they might get stepped on, dropping, or laying something on top of them or prevents them from becoming tempting toys for children and pets.
Replacing Batteries
Battery usage is the most common drawback of hearing aids. Preventing unnecessary battery drain by turning the device off when you take them out at night or when they are not in use should be a priority. Be sure to use the battery designed for your specific model to get the best results. Properly follow instructions for battery replacement and battery charging as well.
Better care, proper maintenance, and frequent cleaning are simple enough for anyone to perform, but there are times when hearing aids require professional care, including:
- difficulty removing wax or debris when cleaning
- cracks in the case, tubing defects or loose wires
- if you have dropped, stepped on or damaged the unit in some other way
Instead of adding to the damage through force or “rigging” something up, bring them in for professional care. Our technicians have the experience and equipment to repair, restore, and protect your hearing aid investment. Contact one of our 44 offices throughout Michigan and Ohio so our team can serve your needs.
